P0705: Transmission Range Sensor Circuit Malfunction (PRNDL Input)
Can you still drive? Use extreme caution. The vehicle may start in gear unexpectedly or fail to recognize the selected gear. Avoid driving if shifting behavior is erratic.
What Does P0705 Mean?
Code P0705 indicates the transmission range sensor (also called the PRNDL switch or neutral safety switch) is sending an invalid or irrational signal to the PCM/TCM. This sensor tells the computer which gear position the driver has selected. When the signal is erratic or missing, the transmission may not shift correctly or may default to a failsafe mode.
Need to read your codes?
An OBD-II scanner lets you read and clear diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle's computer. Most scanners work with any car made after 1996.
Browse OBD-II Scanners on AmazonCommon Causes
- Faulty transmission range sensor
- Corroded or damaged wiring connector at sensor
- Misadjusted shift linkage
- Low transmission fluid affecting sensor operation
- Internal transmission mechanical failure
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Vehicle starts in wrong gear
- No reverse or incorrect gear engagement
- Backup lights not functioning
- Transmission stuck in limp mode
Diagnostic Steps
- 1Read freeze frame data and check which gear position was reported
- 2Inspect transmission range sensor connector for corrosion
- 3Check shift linkage adjustment and cable condition
- 4Test transmission range sensor signal with multimeter in each gear position
- 5Verify proper voltage supply to sensor
- 6Check transmission fluid level and condition
Recommended Parts & Tools
transmission range sensor
electrical connector cleaner
OBD-II scan tool with TCM access
Estimated Repair Cost
| Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Total Repair Cost Range | $100 - $600 |
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Chat with AI About P0705Commonly Affected Vehicles
Related Recalls
1 Active Recall — 2026 Ford F-150
The following NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for this vehicle. Contact your dealer to check if your vehicle is affected.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INTEGRATED TRAILER BRAKE CONTROL
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2026 F-150, 2022-2026 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD, Maverick, 2024-2026 Ranger, 2023-2026 F-600 SD, 2022-2027 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, and 2026 E-Transit vehicles. When towing a trailer, the integrated trailer module (ITRM) may lose communication with the vehicle, possibly causing a loss of brake and turn signal lights, or a loss of brake function. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, " Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Remedy: The integrated trailer module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 17, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26C10. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning March 17, 2026.
Data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a transmission range sensor?
The transmission range sensor, also called the PRNDL switch, tells the computer which gear you have selected (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Low). It is mounted on the outside of the transmission.
Can I drive with P0705?
Driving is risky because the transmission may not know which gear you have selected. The vehicle could start in gear or engage the wrong gear unexpectedly.
Is P0705 the same as a neutral safety switch?
On many vehicles, yes. The transmission range sensor and neutral safety switch are often the same part or integrated together. It prevents starting the engine in gear.
Community Fix Reports
Community reports are user-submitted and not verified by Auto AI Buddy. Results may vary.
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